Feasibility of Solar-Powered Groundwater Pumping Systems in Rural Areas of Greater Giyani Municipality (Limpopo, South Africa)

Rural areas in Limpopo Province (South Africa) are urgent need of interventions for safe and secure water supply to adapt climatic changes the increased frequency droughts. A feasibility study was conducted adoption solar-powered groundwater pumping systems Multiple Water Use Services (MUS) Greater Giyani Municipality (Limpopo). Stakeholder engagement, geotechnical data socio-economic information were used study. The Solar Powered Irrigation Systems (SPIS) tool (GIZ FAO, 2021) design shallow at nine case sites: four villages (water domestic use) five small-scale farms. Given technical configurations, peak requirements ranged from 28.8 58.9 m3/d, power 1.2 3.4 kWp required solar panel surface 8.0 22.3 m2. Viable financial mechanisms operation maintenance MUS leasing, cooperatives, informal saving groups pay-per-use. technology appears be financially technically viable augment supply. However, levels will have monitored purification plants drinking established ensure long-term sustainability.